Juergen Klinsmann has made a surprise return to management as the new boss of the USA national side.

Klinsmann replaces Bob Bradley, who was sacked on Thursday after more than four years in the role.

“I am proud and honoured to be named the head coach of the US Men’s National Team,” said Klinsmann.

“I would like to thank the US Soccer Federation for the opportunity, and I’m excited about the challenge ahead. I am looking forward to bringing the team together for our upcoming match against Mexico and starting on the road toward qualifying for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.”

Klinsmann's first match in charge will be against Mexico on August 10 in a repeat of the Gold Cup final, a 4-2 defeat for the US which proved to be Bradley's final game in charge.

“We are excited to have Jürgen as the head coach of our Men’s National Team,” said US Soccer President Sunil Gulati.

“He is a highly accomplished player and coach with the experience and knowledge to advance the program. Jürgen has had success in many different areas of the game and we look forward to the leadership he will provide on and off the field.”

Klinsmann has been out of work since leaving Bayern Munich in 2009, but after retiring as a player the veteran of 108 Germany matches has spent a long period of time living in California.